Lost Oil: How Often Do You Top Off?

[karmavore]

I admit it, its been a while since I checked my oil, and on top of that, I've only done it once in my ~5 weeks of ownership, about 4 weeks ago. When I checked it then it was filled perfectly to the "H" line but today, about 2-300 miles later, it was settled on the "L" line. I've noticed no leaks, so I'm wondering how typical this is...?

Luke.

[dr.hess]

Did you let it sit the same amount of time before you checked the oil? In other words, did you give time for the oil to drain back down, or check it first thing after sitting overnight? Also, the difference between H and L is only about 1/2 quart (liter, litre), so don't add a whole quart without checking inbetween. That is if it is a 4 cylinder. I don't know about V8's.

On the MB 220D I used to have you had to wait a full 20 minutes to get a correct reading. The manual even told you, and it made a big difference.

Dr.Hess

[karmavore]

I always check it cold, after sitting for days. I added about a half a quart today but did not recheck cos it was hot. I did, however, get the oil pressure light during the drive to pep boys...

Thanks Doc,

Luke.

[lotusguy]

Hi,

These cars are also very sensitive to being on a level surface for most accurate readings. This is due to all the oil that lives in the oil cooler and 20 or so feet of hose from front to rear.

Also, I usually overfill the slightest amount, less than 1/4 qt. to prevent oil starvation in spirited driving because of the tendency of oil to pool in the cam towers especially with a lot of East-West driving. This brings the level to where the meniscus is just past the H mark by about the width of the groove on the dipstick. A little extra insurance if you will.

If you choose to do this, be careful as overfilling too much is very bad, you really need to develop a feel for it over time, so start out slowly adding just a few ounces after you reach the H mark, check reading and add a few more. As I said, you get a feel for it. Happy Motoring! ...Jim'85TE

[karmavore]

Thanks again for all the replies fellas. I really appreciate the help. So, being that it seems I was truly down a half a quart is that unusual?

Luke.

[Kev@carnoisseur]

Ive owned a lot of turbocharged cars and a lot of my mates have turbo cars. We all carry a bit of oil around with us for top ups. When driving hard then letting off the turbo burns off a bit of oil, this happens on gearchanges mostly. Nothing to worry about.

[karmavore]

Thank you.